Treatments for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

There is no cure for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), instead treatment is focused on:

Preventing flare ups

Treating flare ups when they occur

Decreasing the chance of complications, such as organ damage

Maintaining or improving quality of life

Exact treatments will depend on individual's overall health, the areas of the body that are affected, and the impact of symptoms on life. Specialists may be needed, such as a rheumatologist to manage joint issues, cardiologist for heart complications, or nephrologist for kidney problems.

SLE is different in everyone. No matter which symptoms are present, the earlier SLE and SLE flare ups are detected and treated, the better it can be managed. Keeping in touch with the medical team is important to help find the treatments that work best.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Guidelines for referral and management of systemic lupus erythematosus in adults. American College of Rheumatology Ad Hoc Committee on Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Guidelines.
Arthritis Rheum. 1999;42(9):1785-1796.

Lupus. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases website. Available at:
http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health%5FInfo/Lupus/default.asp. Updated May 2013. Accessed December 29, 2014.